Marlene Cameron: 'Outfitting Women for Success'

Marlene grew up in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, and lived in several cities across North America, including Winnipeg, Edmonton, New Orleans, and Houston, before settling down in Calgary.

She learned about Dress for Success Calgary through The Business and Professional Women’s (BPW) Club of Calgary. She started volunteering half a day by helping sort the donations but got more involved and started volunteering as a stylist as well.

Marlene says she loves everything to do with clothes and accessories and through this experience she learned how much she enjoys helping women find their style. She told us, “It gives them more confidence to enter or advance in the business world.” She also shared with us that she immediately felt that Making Changes had a wonderful and caring culture. “I was made to feel welcome and appreciated from the beginning.” 

“We don’t just outfit women for the professional world, our other programs give extra training, the preparation needed for interviews, and other life skills.”

Marlene was quickly impressed with the programs and was struck by how useful they are to the clients. “We don’t just outfit women for the professional world, our other programs give extra training, the preparation needed for interviews, and other life skills.” 

Marlene was also impressed with the clients - the courage of the women who arrive from other countries to make new lives in Calgary, as well as Canadian women who are re-entering the workforce. “It takes determination to overcome fears and self-doubt”, Marlene says.

Marlene encourages women to volunteer with Making Changes and Dress for Success Calgary and insists that “you won’t know until you try it. You can visit, shadow a volunteer, and see if it’s something that appeals to you. I always tell my clients to take a small first step and the next step will be revealed.”

Thank you, Marlene, for all that you do for us and our clients, We are so proud of all our volunteers for their dedication and commitment to helping women, those who identify as women, and teen girls in Calgary!

Check out our website for details on ways to volunteer with us: https://www.makingchangesassociation.ca/volunteer-with-us 

Marjorie Hunchak: 'Impacting Lives Through Volunteering'n

Marjorie was born in Belleville, Ontario and moved to Calgary in 1990. Due to health reasons, she had to retire early and found this new stage of her life very challenging. She felt that being idle was not helping her health improve. She decided to find an activity that would help her use her time positively. That’s when she found out about the option to volunteer for Dress for Success Calgary. 

Since starting to volunteer, she has found herself feeling better and enjoying the experience. She says, “I really enjoy meeting new Canadians who have come here from all over the world.”

With our clients, there is frequently a language barrier, but Marjorie says that they always find a way to communicate.

She told us, “What I love most is the pure joy I experience witnessing the transformation someone has from when they first come in after they have had their styling appointment. It's like watching a beautiful flower bloom!”

““My heart is so full after every shift, I feel pure joy. My experience has been so rewarding and truly life-altering for me.””

Marjorie feels that she has learned so much by volunteering with Dress for Success Calgary which has given her more than she could have expected. “My heart is so full after every shift, I feel pure joy. My experience has been so rewarding and truly life-altering for me.”

To those looking for an organization to volunteer with, Marjorie urges them to consider Making Changes/Dress for Success Calgary. She says, “I was astounded by how many women in Calgary require support that is provided by Making Changes and Dress for Success Calgary. For women who are seeking to further their education or enter the workforce, they can benefit from programs and services for the extra support they need to go above and beyond their career and educational goals.” 

Volunteering with Dress for Success Calgary means helping women and those who identify as women build confidence and giving them the opportunity to build a new life for themselves and their families. As Marjorie says, “Yes, it's that big!”

Thank you, Marjorie, for all that you do for us and our clients, We are so proud of all our volunteers for their dedication and commitment to helping women, those who identify as women, and teen girls in Calgary!

Check out our website for details on ways to volunteer with us: https://www.makingchangesassociation.ca/volunteer-with-us 

Linda Aldridge: 'Helping Women Feel Hopeful"

Linda is originally from Sackville, Nova Scotia, and moved to Calgary after graduating from the university. 

After reading the client testimonials, Linda was so impressed with the Dress for Success Calgary program, its impact on women’s lives, and all the better that it had to do with fashion! It was a perfect combination for Linda to sign up to volunteer as a stylist. 

Linda says her favorite part about volunteering is seeing the clients’ smiles. She told us, “Nothing short of magic happens when we find the right clothes. At that moment the clients light up, they feel good about themselves, and are hopeful about their future.”

““Clothes are a universal experience””

“Clothes are a universal experience”, Linda says. “In most cultures, no matter where you’re from, the clothes you wear and what you adorn your body with convey meaning and express who you are. And when language barriers exist, clothes can also substitute for words.” 

She added, “Everyone knows when they look good, and words are not needed to express it.” 

To those interested in volunteering, Linda shares that for her, “it’s a life-affirming experience. The gratitude the clients have is overwhelming; you can’t buy the feeling it gives you. Give it a try!”

““it’s a life-affirming experience. The gratitude the clients have is overwhelming; you can’t buy the feeling it gives you. Give it a try!””

Thank you, Linda, for all that you do for us and our clients!

We are so proud of all our volunteers for their dedication and commitment to helping women, those who identify as women, and teen girls in Calgary!

Check out our website for details on ways to volunteer with us: https://www.makingchangesassociation.ca/volunteer-with-us 

Suzette Toews: 'An Encounter With Grit and Grace'

There’s a sleek new storefront that has appeared in the semi-industrial area of 42nd Ave SE. Its contemporary black façade stands out among a dusty mix of trade suppliers and small community food stores.

It is late afternoon, and I pull into the parking stall conveniently beside the front door. The sign “INTERIOR LIVING” looms large above me as I adjust my mask and navigate my way between two tall planters bringing a much needed touch of green to this landscape, and make my way inside.

I feel like I have stepped through the looking glass! It is simply gorgeous. Light and airy, and full of beautiful and inspiring furniture and décor vignettes. Colours, textures and shapes all in harmony. The energy is tranquil and happy.

I see Suzette, elegant and as always impeccably stylish, busily discussing the next phase of in-store installations with a friend. A bar for social events – I can see this working well! It’s the kind of place you want to stay a while.

I’m curious as I watch her deep in discussion and wonder how this smart and quietly spoken woman actually achieved this. How did she create this bricks-and-mortar expression of her dreams, and not settle for less, fearful of failure, like so many?

““Setbacks and disappointment part of the growth. Evaluate the situation and learn from the experience. Cry if you need to, drink wine if you want to, but then move on.””

The soft music plays on although the store is now closed. Savouring a glass of cabernet, we find a cosy corner to relax and chat.

Suzette’s story unfolded as we spoke. Certainly not born with the proverbial silver spoon - on the contrary, her early years held something of far greater value. A solid family with hardworking parents (father a German immigrant and mother from a humble farming community in northern Saskatchewan) starting from scratch, running a family automotive-related business underpinned by what we now call “old fashioned values” and integrity. As soon as she could, she helped out in every facet of the business and quickly learned the entrepreneurial skills required.

Marriage and a baby forced change at the age of 23. No longer wishing to work full-time, she did courses and part-time work. After a few years, she found herself in the position of a single mom with two little boys.

(This is where I pause and listen for any suggestion of victimhood. Of disempowerment or helplessness……. Nothing. Not even a hint.)

“Setbacks and disappointment part of the growth. Evaluate the situation and learn from the experience. Cry if you need to, drink wine if you want to, but then move on.”

Undaunted she continued on her path.

““Clothes are really important. Be professional and take pride in your presentation. Dress for the environment – in this store the expectation for staff is a sense of style and being put together.””

Her work and career took her through a series of twists and turns, always strategically heading toward fulfilling her desire to work in the world of design. When out of her depth she attended courses, learned from those around her, and found skilled mentors every step of the way.

 “Motivation - the adrenalin comes when I am challenged and need to push myself to find solutions. Some may call it an obsession!”

Fiercely independent, endlessly curious and preferring to work as a contractor rather than an employee, the years of hard work soon started to pay off.

 “Just do what you love, and thrive. I am not motivated by money. However, it seems to follow naturally when you have passion for what you do.”

An interesting story, but I wanted more, as it is an attitude to the circumstance that influences one’s journey in life. Delving a little deeper I found honesty, integrity, and a hugely positive perspective on life.

 “Finding a work/life balance is something I continually strive for. When I am balanced, I am fulfilled. Embracing good energy and contributing to a positive work environment is key for me. Commit to learning and continual growth.”

We talked about her managing the store and finding suitable employees.

 “At Interior Living when interviewing applicants, we look for a team player with a good personality, positive attitude, enthusiastic, authentic, committed, honest, and of course fun!”

 “Clothes are really important. Be professional and take pride in your presentation. Dress for the environment – in this store the expectation for staff is a sense of style and being put together.”

Finally, we addressed the subject of women in business. As an entrepreneur, there is no limit to where she and her business partner can take this!

“This is a proud time for women. Women have power. Our business is led by two women embracing opportunity and making it happen. With our store, Interior Living, and integrated neighboring art gallery, Gibson Fine Art, we can showcase success. We employ women and the majority of our clients are women. Many are highly educated and successful. Women are supportive of each other and like to play a role in their success!”

Yes, there were times she had to cry, drink wine and get on with it. Nevertheless, the journey has brought her to the present moment and this amazing store, which I personally am in no hurry to leave, simply wanting to bask in the ambiance as I see the late afternoon sun streaming in and bathing the furniture, décor, and art in a soft and gentle light.

However, it is time to head home. Suzette stays to finish a few things and lock up the building. I drive away with a smile, delighted by time well spent.

Written by:  Mickey Foulds

Patti Dalsin: ‘A Passion for Life-long Learning and Service’

Volunteering is a great way to gain work experience, develop valuable connections and transferable skills, explore different career opportunities, as well as to contribute positively to society. At Making Changes Association, volunteers are the backbone of all our efforts. We have a strong and committed volunteer body that works tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of women, young girls, and those who identify as women.

This team of bright, energetic, talented, and committed volunteers is led by Patti Dalsin, Manager, Volunteers and Operations. We have always admired Patti’s sense of style, personality, and keen sense of humor. We sat down with her to have a heart-to-heart about her career, professional and other experiences, and why her work is important to her. 

Q: Tell us about your career and past professional experience.

Patti: I had been an elementary school teacher for 25 years. Since I came from a family of teachers, it was only logical for me to become one. As a teacher, I really enjoyed working with children; however, it was only when I taught at Bow Valley College later in my career, I discovered that I loved working with adult learners. There is a different level of connection, and it really is a two-way street where both learner and instructor have opportunities to learn from each other. I thoroughly enjoy the experience of learning from our clients, volunteers, and course participants about other professions, career paths people had taken in the past as well as the cultures and traditions of many diverse communities in Calgary.

Q: How would you describe your journey so far at Making Changes?

Patti: My journey at Making Changes began in 2013 with an introduction by a friend who was volunteering as a stylist. Like her, I started out as a stylist and immediately loved the place and my work because of my strong belief that women should be in charge of their own destinies and financial independence. Later, I joined the current position after the position became vacant.

“I see myself as a life-long learner. My work has also made me more aware of the diversity, inclusion, and antiracism efforts to ensure that these practices are involved in everything Making Changes does.”

From day one, I have really enjoyed my work with the volunteers! Fortunately, getting volunteers is hardly ever a problem for us as we get so many applications that there is always a waitlist. This also speaks to the impact of Making Changes where the community can see the difference we make in the lives of thousands of clients and program participants through our work, and they volunteer to contribute to the efforts. I am very proud of all my volunteers who work with such dedication, creativity, and a strong commitment to women’s finding their next steps to becoming financially and professionally secure.  

Q: What are the key benefits of volunteering at Making Changes?

Patti: There are many benefits of volunteering with us. First of all, the volunteers get the opportunity to build relationships with other women, whether they are staff, other volunteers, or clients. Over the years, I have seen many friendships grow and women supporting and building each other up which is a wonderful gain for all. Volunteers also have the benefit of getting reference letters for their employment-related or educational efforts.

The most important benefit that I see is the two-way impact created in the 90-minute interaction between the volunteers and the clients. Clients usually have ‘Aha’ moments when trying out different styles, and clothing options and find their style that they probably never paid attention to or were never aware of, which makes them happy and feel positive. On the other hand, volunteers, using their passion for fashion and style, get the deep satisfaction of guiding the clients to find their sense of professional attire and leave with big smiles. In addition, the successes of our clients are cheered on whenever a client informs us that they have been employed or have started educational pursuits. That is very important for us!

Q: What is the best aspect of your work?

Patti: Being a social person, meeting new women from all kinds of contexts and age groups is simply amazing. It has changed my outlook on so many aspects of support that is and can be provided to uphold women of all ages. I am truly inspired by women who despite facing all kinds of barriers and challenges, don’t give up. The best part of it all is to see women and young girls feel good about themselves and their future as they leave content, positive and happy.

Q: What do you consider as a key accomplishment of your tenure at Making Changes?

I feel very proud of my active participation in setting up My Best Friend’s Closet at the new location. Since then, the program has thrived, setting up teen girls with not only clothing and accessories but also providing guidance through workshops, and facilitating the growth of a dedicated team of volunteers. It’s been amazing to see the program grow strength to strength and become a valuable resource to support youth in Calgary.

Q: How would you describe yourself as a person?

Patti: I see myself as a life-long learner. My work has also made me more aware of the diversity, inclusion, and antiracism efforts to ensure that these practices are involved in everything Making Changes does. In the past year, it has been the biggest learning experience for me to reflect on who I am as a person and how I can ensure diversity and inclusion in my daily life because it is very important for me. I am very thankful for the opportunity to lead the efforts to ensure that all diversity, inclusion, and antiracism-related awareness and education opportunities are shared with the staff and volunteers.

Q: How would you describe the future of Making Changes as an organization?

Patti: I see a great potential in Making Changes to grow significantly in the near future and become a hub of resources for supporting women, young girls, and all those who identify as women through innovative programming, information, and a host of support services.

Q: What do you see for yourself in the future?

Patti: I love good humor and spending time with my grandchildren. I hope to continue working with volunteers, helping women and all those who identify as females, and facilitating a safe and fun space at work. On a personal level, I want to share many fun and learning experiences with my grandkids so that they also are aware of the world and all the wonderful things it has to offer. I would also love to visit Tahiti soon which has been on my travel list for a while!

Thank you, Patti, for all you do for Making Changes and the volunteer team. We wish you all the best and hope all your dreams come true!  

If you would like to volunteer with us, we welcome volunteers who can assist with styling, donation sorting, special events, mentoring, and resume and interview support. Please visit the following link to apply: https://www.makingchangesassociation.ca/volunteer-with-us

Check out our programs: https://www.makingchangesassociation.ca/programs

Alison Law: ‘Things That Matter’

“Clothes totally matter. They make a difference on how we are received by each other.”

Alison Law speaks with an authority to which she is fully entitled. One of the most visually talented creative minds in Calgary, she is also one of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Her interior design business, Studio A Interiors, needs no promotion. A word of mouth, friend of a friend referral network keeps her busy. Clients who work with her receive far more than a beautiful environment within which to live.

Alison becomes animated as she describes a recent project, a home office for a health care worker who was one of many at the front line throughout the pandemic. The constant pressure and stress of critical contact tracing in the race against time was taking its toll on her. As Alison describes her redesign of the space, it is clear that her primary concern was to create an environment that would nurture her client. 

Reorienting the desk to give her client a soothing view into nature, comfortable chairs for family members coming in for a quick supportive visit, and an ottoman for man’s best friend – her puppy.  The focus is always on the needs of the person. Colours, shapes and textures get folded in as the design process develops. It is not about the expense of the pieces, but rather how the space serves the person. The client’s response to the end result?  Absolute joy. “This must be your best work ever! You need it on your website.”

In actual fact, everything that Alison creates is her “best work ever”. 

I am lounging comfortably under shady trees in her backyard oasis. The trickle of water from the small fountain disrupts the stillness of the afternoon. I feel utterly relaxed and am reminded of the profound influence our surroundings have on us.

I want to learn more from her about creating spaces that nurture us, as the space we inhabit plays a significant, and often overlooked, role in our personal wellbeing. Much the same way that exercise and nutrition are important, living beautifully further supports our happiness and ongoing success in life. Having a well-appointed home environment lies within the reach of all of us.

So where does one start? The advice immediately becomes practical.

“The most important aspect to address first is room layout. Figure out what you need and understand the function of the space – it’s not about money and adding things. Get rid of the clutter, but keep the personal pieces you love. When decorating always ‘shop’ your own home first. You will find things you have stored which can be repurposed and enjoyed, rather than heading to the store and purchasing meaningless accessories. Mix old with new – it will make the space feel so much more personal.” Alison continues to say that as a designer it is important to understand how clients live and work and that it is not about her own personal taste.  “Design is an intimate process. It is not a surface process.”  She talks about colour and understanding the nuances and psychological impact it has.

She delights in pushing the envelope herself and has the perfect opportunity with her rental properties.  “It has been satisfying to take old houses and, with cost-effective renovations, turn them into beautiful homes. There has been a tremendous diversity of tenants, and many have been affected very positively by living in these homes. They often stay for many years.”

“My sense of success and fulfillment comes from the clients who trust me with their homes and their everyday living. It also comes from the ability to be a creative person, and knowing that my creativity has helped others.”

Alison Law

Her own home is a magical space – every room invites you to just sit and look around at the gorgeous furniture, art and collectibles. The colours are rich and vibrant, and texture abounds. I try to maintain a veneer of politeness and not just stand and stare at it all. It makes a strong case against the starkness of minimalism as it celebrates her journey through life. It is an exquisite little jewel box demonstrating the realisation of the amazing potential that can be found in every home.

“My sense of success and fulfillment comes from the clients who trust me with their homes and their everyday living. It also comes from the ability to be a creative person, and knowing that my creativity has helped others. “

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Alison understands first-hand the impact of women encouraging other women. As a new interior design graduate 32 years ago she was employed by a cabinet company. It was the wife of the owner who insisted that her husband employ a designer in this previously male domain, as the industry was shifting from merely selling cabinetry to builders on to the next level of actually creatively designing kitchens. Alison learned to navigate challenging construction sites and do her work alongside the men, soon earning their respect through her professionalism and desire to learn. “I have worked with men my whole career – they have been invaluable in teaching me the technical foundation, which underpins all good design.”

She is widely travelled and loves the outdoors. We talk about life in general. She becomes thoughtful.  “I have so much gratefulness for life, and for simple things. How lucky I feel to be in nature, to be able to go out riding my bike, healthy, and to have time to myself. I so appreciate the life we live here in Calgary, in Canada. And to have a home, a beautiful home…..”

The things that matter. Yes, clothes totally matter, and our homes and way of life matter more than most of us realise too!

Written by: Mickey Foulds

Teri-Ann Begin: The Girl In The Three Piece Suit

The theatre is a place where we enter the world of imagination and possibility, of hopes and dreams, and vivid stories exploring the length and breadth of the lives we lead. Magnificent scenery and elaborate outfits create an illusion for the audience, and the actors fully immerse themselves into new identities as they put on their wigs, makeup and costumes and become someone else for the next few hours. 

Art indeed imitates life, and as Shakespeare aptly observed, “All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players”.

A young student at the Fort William Collegiate Institute School in Thunder Bay, Northern Ontario was already intuitively aware of the transformative power of costume in her early teens, and the role she wished to play on this world stage.

Teri-Ann Begin smiles as she recalls, “I wore three-piece suits to school because I always wanted to be a business woman…….and no, the other kids didn’t think it was strange because I was in a band. I played the flute and the piccolo. I thought we were the cool group.” She laughs easily. “After all, it was the seventies and everyone wore weird clothes!”

The aphorisms “act as if”, “fake it until you make it” and “build it and they will come” have become popular mainstream beliefs for many, frequently referred to as the Power of Intention. Personal presentation and dress play an integral role in this journey to realising one’s goals.

 There was however nothing fake about the girl in the three-piece suit –working hard and being successful was in her DNA. She discovered she had a gift for sales, and quite simply states the reason. “I talk to people”.

It is late afternoon and I am grateful for the air-conditioned relief of Teri-Ann’s home, perched high above the silvery Bow River winding its way through the city below. It is a gracious and welcoming executive home, a testament to 34 years of climbing the real estate ladder in Calgary and reaching the upper echelons of success.  We chat for a while, then Teri-Ann leaves the room briefly. I look around and am struck by the lack of pretentiousness – the space speaks of family and community, of relaxed meals, and the business of daily life.

I also know that within these walls is her office, housing the highly successful RE/MAX Real Estate (Central) Begin Group managed in partnership with her daughter, Stephanie Begin. It is an enviable success story fuelled by a 92% referral rate and a strong performance in the corporate relocation sector. It is run as a tight ship, with Teri-Ann and Stephanie leading by example, uncompromising with regard to their expectations of excellence from the team.

I want to see her wardrobe, but already know it will be filled with well-tailored high-quality professional outfits. Mostly black and red, the power colours which suit her well. I note that today for my visit she is wearing a simple relaxed denim dress.

“If in all your actions you focus on making the world a better place, especially with respect to the people you meet, you in turn will have what you need”

Our paths have crossed many times for over a decade, and I have been intrigued by her stories of hiking across England and climbing Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa. Her positive, proactive and honest approach to life helps her navigate challenges with tenacity and integrity. It takes courage, and she makes it look easy.

Teri-Ann said she “talks to people”.  It goes far beyond that – she tells me the driving force in her business and in life is her desire to help people. She clearly listens to people too and makes them feel valued. She is passionate about maintaining contact with others – she does not merely orchestrate the sale or purchase of a house, and then disappear with her dues. Clients who purchased homes with her help return decades later when it is time for the next move. Such trust and loyalty is deservedly hers.

I ask her perspective on strategies for coping with personal difficulty, and without hesitation, she replies “No matter how difficult things are at any point in your life, you don’t need to look far to find someone in a worse position than you. Find that person and then do what you can to make their life better. You will find your own issue is no longer that bad.” She tells me her mum always volunteered, and taught her that “God has given us the best life possible, and it is our responsibility to give back.” 

Following in these footsteps, Teri-Ann initially became a Girl Guide leader. Later, looking for further opportunities to give back, a client suggested that she might be interested to volunteer with assisting women trying to get into the workforce. This perfect fit for the astute business woman has led to 15 years of significant contribution of her time, talent, and energy serving the needs of women at Making Changes.

I next ask her what she looks for in others that would earn her respect, and once again the answer is quick and concise “how they treat serving staff, older people and also people who are not dressed well”.

All I can see in her comes from inner strength, hard work and an unfailing belief that “if in all your actions you focus on making the world a better place, especially with respect to the people you meet, you in turn will have what you need”.

I leave, and as I drive home I reflect upon this rare encounter with someone who has spent a lifetime in unswerving commitment to her vision, helping others who are less fortunate by giving a hand up, and serving every client privileged to work with her to the very best of her ability.

The executive attire she now wears is no longer a costume, but simply a reflection of the remarkable business woman within.

Written by: Mickey Foulds